The Alpine Formula 1 team is experiencing yet another shift in leadership.
In a team announcement, Oliver Oaks has resigned, and his departure has been accepted “with immediate effect.”
Flavio Briatore will remain on as an executive advisor, taking over the responsibilities previously held by Oaks.
This season, Alpine finished sixth in the Constructors Championship. Their driver lineup features experienced racer Pierre Guthrie and newcomer Jacques Doohan. After the recent Miami Grand Prix, the team found themselves in ninth place, with seven points accumulated. Guthrie secured a seventh-place finish at the Bahrain Grand Prix and additional points during the Formula 1 sprint race in Miami.
There’s ongoing speculation regarding Doohan’s future with the team, alongside Gasly. The season began with mounting pressure on Doohan due to the team signing Franco Colapinto as a backup driver following his impressive performance with Williams last season.
Complicating matters, YPF president and CEO Horacio Marin made headlines during a TV appearance before the Miami Grand Prix, which fueled rumors when he was arrested. A hot microphone incident hinted at Colapinto’s inclusion in the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix lineup.
The Argentine energy firm YPF is financially supporting Colapinto.
In a FIA press conference preceding the Miami race, Oaks addressed the speculation around Doohan, asserting that Doohan is “with Pierre” as part of the team. He acknowledged the rumors but emphasized the necessity for Doohan to continue performing well.
Oaks remarked, “I think we’ve been pretty transparent as a team…” suggesting that while speculation is part of the process, Doohan’s position is secure for now.
He firmly stated that as of today, Doohan is indeed confirmed as one of the drivers alongside Pierre.
But with Oaks now stepping down, the situation remains fluid.
This story will be updated as more details emerge.
